New Website Seeks to Save Lives

The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP)'s new website another aid in preventing suicides in Canada

TORONTO, Sept. 10, 2014 /CNW/ - CASP announces the official launch of its new website at suicideprevention.ca. The new website will enhance the national, not-for-profit organization in providing Canadians with important information about suicide prevention, intervention and postvention.

Suicide continues to be a major issue for Canadians. Approximately 11 people will end their lives by suicide today – and every day - in Canada. Awareness is essential to changing this behavior. CASP's suicideprevention.ca plays a key role in delivering information and resources to those who need it most.

"CASP, with its many partners, has been the voice for suicide prevention for over 30 years," says CASP President Renée Ouimet. "Our members are committed to reducing suicide through collaborative work in the area of research, education, training and support, in the development of needed services to Canadians who struggle with suicide behaviour and suicide related grief."

The CASP focus is on hope and resiliency. Together with its members, CASP aims to end the silence, ease the suffering, and prevent others from experiencing such pain and loss.

"CASP gratefully acknowledges the support of the Mental Health Commission of Canada for assistance with our website redevelopment," says Ouimet. "The refreshed site is now far more visually appealing and informative resource for Canadians from coast to coast to coast."

How can you support CASP and its work in suicide prevention, intervention and postvention?

• Become a member of CASP.
• Make a donation to the charity.
• Get involved with your local suicide prevention organization/committee.
• Write or call your Member of Parliament about the need for a national suicide prevention strategy.
• Follow CASP on Facebook and Twitter (@CASP_CA).
• Help raise awareness and spread the word about CASP's new website to friends and families.
• Educate yourself, your family and your community.

About CASP: CASP provides information and resources to reduce the suicide rate and minimize the harmful consequences of suicidal behaviour. Suicide is preventable; together, we can make a difference. Visit www.suicideprevention.ca to learn more.

The Mental Health Commission of Canada is a catalyst for change. We are collaborating with hundreds of partners to change the attitudes of Canadians toward mental health problems and to improve services and support. Our goal is to help people who live with mental health problems and illnesses lead meaningful and productive lives. Together we accelerate the change. The Mental Health Commission of Canada is funded by Health Canada.

www.mentalhealthcommission.ca | strategy.mentalhealthcommission.ca

SOURCE: Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention

The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP), Phone: [phone], Email: [email protected]; Renee Ouimet, CASP president, at [email protected], 613-737-7791 ext.124.